Deck and Railing Design Ideas

Decks are a great way to add outdoor living space to your home. A deck can be as simple as a grade-level platform that stands on its own a few inches above the ground or as intricate as a multi-tiered structure with steps, railings, pergolas, trellises and built-in features such as tables, benches, planters and hot tubs. Choices include composite decking, vinyl decking and pressure treated wood decks.

CLICK ANY PHOTO TO VIEW THE SLIDESHOW & DESCRIPTIONS

These composite deck boards closely resemble wood and are barefoot friendly since there are no exposed wood fibers or nails on the surface. The decking is also stain and fade resistant.

This composite deck addition provides ample space for entertaining. The deck easily accommodates two outdoor dining tables, bench seating and a grill. The deck blends into two patio areas.

The back of this home faces Skaneateles Lake and has a raised deck constructed with DuraLife decking and glass panels to optimize the view. Building code requires that deck rails be at eye level when a person is seated. Since solid rails would obstruct the view for a person seated in a wheelchair, a special impact resistant safety glass railing was used with the glass panels. There is a lower level exit from the home to a pathway that leads to the dock. Windows and glass doors were strategically installed to provide a view of the lake from the interior.

These steps connect the elevated deck with a walkway that runs from the front of the home to the lakeside dock. The steps and rails are composite materials from DuraLife. The steps were angled for both safety and aesthetics.

This deck over the water includes concealed storage areas, a ramp into the water and an attached dock with a cut-out for an existing tree. Benches incorporated into the deck design provide plenty of seating.

This freestanding deck overlooks Skaneateles Lake and includes a dock for swimming and boating.

Stairs connect the deck area to the dock.

This deck was built around the whirlpool for easy access. Clear panels allow full view between railing posts.

The features of this elevated deck addition include two areas for outdoor living, a shelter and a patio surround for a hot tub. A privacy screen was added to the upper level deck.

Pressure treated wood deck flooring was installed with hidden fasteners on this elevated deck addition. The deck surface is smooth with no visible nails or screws.

This elegant whirlpool tub was recessed below the surface of the deck to ease entry. The composite material used for the deck is rot-free.

This simple pressure treated deck adds an affordable outdoor living space to this new addition.